Renewed partnership with Assembly of First Nations strengthens access, recognition, and culturally relevant support
First Nations Veterans have proudly served Canada in times of war and peace, yet many continue to face systemic barriers when accessing the benefits and recognition they deserve. Today, the Honourable Darren Fisher, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, reaffirmed Canada's shared commitment to First Nation Veterans and their families by working in partnership with the Assembly First Nations (AFN).
Alongside National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak of the Assembly of First Nation and Chairman Percy Joe of the AFN Veterans' Council, Minister Fisher reaffirmed this shared commitment through an updated and co-developed Letter of Understanding (LOU). This renewed partnership builds on previous efforts to address long-standing systemic barriers to accessing Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC) programs and services.
The renewed agreement outlines four priority areas:
- To ensure meaningful inclusion of First Nations culture in AFN and VAC-led commemorative ceremonies and events
- To document and share the history of those who served
- To provide culturally-appropriate supports to Veterans
- To address barriers to access VAC programs and services
This renewed partnership builds on the progress made in collaboration with the AFN and strengthens VAC's commitment to working alongside the AFN and its Veterans Council on key initiatives. As part of Canada's ongoing efforts toward Reconciliation, this partnership takes meaningful action to ensure First Nations Veterans receive the recognition and support they deserve.
